Watch The Policeman

The Policeman is a classic Israeli film from 1971 that tells the story of a simple and kind-hearted traffic policeman named Azoulay (Shaike Ophir) who is struggling to provide for his family. Azoulay is a member of the Mizrahi community, which faces discrimination in Israeli society, and is constantly looked down upon by his colleagues and superiors, who see him as uneducated and low-class.

Despite his struggles, Azoulay remains committed to his duties as a policeman, taking pride in maintaining law and order on the streets of Tel Aviv. He is known for his compassionate approach towards the citizens he encounters, and is adored by the children in his neighborhood.

However, Azoulay's life takes an unexpected turn when he is assigned to protect a group of left-wing activists who are suspected of plotting against the government. The activists, led by Nati (Avner Hizkiyahu) and Shraga (Amos Kenan), are vocal critics of the establishment and advocates for social justice.

Initially, Azoulay is uncomfortable with his assignment, as he is not politically inclined and does not understand the anger and frustration of the activists. However, as he spends time with them, he begins to empathize with their plight and sees the injustice and inequality that they are fighting against.

The relationship between Azoulay and the activists is at the heart of the film, as they gradually become friends and learn to respect each other's viewpoints. Azoulay's transformation is particularly poignant, as he goes from being a loyal servant of the state to a critical observer of its shortcomings.

At the same time, the film explores other themes, such as the tension between the Mizrahi and Ashkenazi communities in Israeli society, the role of the police in maintaining order, and the power dynamics between the state and its citizens.

The Policeman is a masterful film that manages to balance humor, drama, and social commentary in a nuanced and engaging way. The cast is superb, with Shaike Ophir giving a standout performance as the gentle and naive Azoulay. The film also features a beautiful soundtrack composed by the legendary Israeli singer Arik Einstein, which adds to the emotional depth of the story.

Overall, The Policeman is a timeless classic that offers a thought-provoking and entertaining look at Israeli society in the early years of the state. It is a must-see for anyone interested in Israeli cinema, as well as for those who want to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and challenges of Israeli society.